Oriental Power Cables Ltd.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 Product Range

ORILITE Standard Blocks ORILITE Jumbo Blocks ORILITE Load Bearing Lintels

ORILITE Non-Load Bearing Lintels ORILITE Reinforced Roof Panels

ORILITE Reinforced Horizontal Wall Panels

ORILITE Reinforced Vertical Wall Panels

ORILITE U-Blocks

ORILITE Tongue & Groove Blocks

ORILITE Cored Blocks ,

ORILITE Designer Wall Panels

ORILITE Fences

Products as per BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) Code

2185-3 (1984), 6041 (1985), 6072 (1971), 6073 (2006)
 ~~ Orilite
~~B New Age Building Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orilite Block/Panel?
Orilite block/panel is a precast, lightweight and insulating green building product which is used as walling material
and as replacement for bricks, CLC Blocks etc. Due to strong thermal insulation, Orilite blocks/panels also find use in
specialty applications such as fire walls, sound walls, roof tiling etc. Oriental Power Cable Limited (OPCL)
manufactures these products at its state-of-the art fully automated plant with latest innovations in Rajasthan under
the Brand name "Orilite ".

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Which materials are used to make Orilite Blocks/Panels?

Cement, Silica source, Lime and Polymers are the key ingredients for making Orilite blocks/panels. They are cured
under steam curing known as Autoclave. Due to sustainable material envelope, these products are certified under
green rating system and helps builder to get credit points.

lime block SILICA

In which type of structures has Orilite Block been used ?

Orilite Block can be used in large walling applications across various segments such as Residential Buildings,
Commercial Complexes and Offices, Hotels and Hospitals, Educational Institutes, Industrial Buildings and
infrastructures etc. Due to strong thermal insulation, Orilite Block also find use in specialty applications such as fire
walls, sound walls, roof tiling etc.

, What are the typical sizes of Orilite Blocks ?

Orilite Blocks is available in length of 600mm, height of 200 mm and thicknesses from 100 mm to 300 mm. For further
information, please contact our marketing department.

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Is Orilite Construction economic?
Orilite masonry construction is also economical because of the following aspects{as stated in BIS:.2185(Part3)-1984}

a)The units are relatively large add true in size and shape. This ensures rapid construction so that more wall is
laid-per man-hour than in other types of wall construction;
b )Fewer joint result in considerable saving in mortar as compared to normal masonry construction, and also in
increasing the strength of the wall,
c) The true plane surfaces obtained obviate necessity of plaster for unimportant buildings situated in low rainfall
areas; even when plaster is used for any reason, the quantity required for satisfactory coverage is significantly
small.
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Will my cost of co~struction increase with Orilite Blocks?

Orilite Blocks offers large number of Smart Benefits. Orilite Blocks should be considered right from design stage to get
maximum benefits. One gets better quality wall with Orilite Blocks. Depending on the cost of resources, life cycle cost
can even be lower with Orilite Blocks when compared with clay bricks or CLC blocks.
How much does ORILITE cost? c
ORILITE pricing is very competitive with other quality building materials. Installed cost and operating cost must be
considered as well. These costs are all affected by project size, location, labor market, current freight rates, building
codes, and the particular application.

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Being light weight does Orilite Blocks have any strength issue for walls?
Strength ofOrilite Blocks is as per IS:2185-Part III which is absolutely safe and strong enough to use for any non-load
bearing walling applications.

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Is Orilite Blocks/panels advisable to use in high rise buildings?

Being lightweight (l/3rd weight of clay bricks), Orilite Blocks/Panels are highly recommended for high rise buildings
and help in reduction of total dead load of structure which directly helps in structural savings upto 20%.

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~~Bi New Age Building Solutions

How is Orilite Blocks different?

Orilite Blocks are manufactured at state-of-the art plant with 100% automatic process and the plant is equipped with
latest innovations, such as horizontal curing and Green separation. This ensures that users are able to get an accurate
and consistent product. ~- -

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ost Walls made of AAC blocks develop cracks in contact with moisture/rains?
Cracks are developed due to improper mixing of raw materials. Lime coagulates and when in contact with moisture, it
reacts and crack develops. Orilite blocks are made in highly automated state-of-the-art plant where raw material
be mixing is thorough and consistent unlike other manufacturers and thus problems due to improper mixing are taken
ng care of.
How Orilite Blocks is better than concrete blocks?
Orilite Blocks are better than concrete blocks as they are lighter in weight (1/Sth weight) , have better thermal
insulation (can save up to 20% energy) along with dimensional accuracy leading to smart wall. Orilite Blocks are much
easier to work with as it can be sanded and cut easily. Due to autoclaving, Orilite Block is inert in nature.

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How Orilite Blocks is better than clay bricks?

Orilite Blocks offer immense benefits when compared to clay bricks. They are lighter in weight (1/3rd weight of clay
bricks), have bigger size, have much better thermal insulation and are earthquake resistance. Walls built with Orilite
Blocks are dimensionally accurate and help to save time, space, steel, cement, water, labour and above all it helps to
save our Mother-Earth.

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Is Orilite Blocks are same as hollow block?

No, Orilite Blocks is much lighter than Hollow blocks and much more uniform and accurate. They do not have any
through cavity.

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How is Orilite Blocks different from CLC blocks?
CLC Blocks has almost double the weight ofOrilite Block. Orilite Block is much more accurate, durable ,stronger and
Autoclaving helps to get a much more consistent product.

Is Orilite Blocks Wail resistant to Earthquake?

Yes, being lightweight it reduces the impact of earthquake forces on fixed structure and increases chances of survival.

What is the R-Value of a ORILITE wall?

The thermal performance of ORILITE is equivalent to R-20 insulation. Orilite combines the advantages of low
thermal conductivity and low air-infiltration with high thermal mass. ORILITE walls are insulated by millions oftiny
air cells which reduce thermal conductivity.

This product is used in every climatic region of the world, from humid South America, to the dry heat of the Middle
East and the severe cold ofFinland. Insulation is rarely added; the walls are simply thicker.

How durable is ORILITE in various climates?

ORILITE is extremely durable. It does not rot or decay like wood or other organic materials. It does not rust like
metal. Termites and other pests do not eat it. Orilite will not burn. The millions of tiny cells in Orilite cushion buildings
from major force, preventing progressive collapse. AAC has withstood earthquakes in Japan, the frigid temperatures
of northern Europe, the harsh salt air of the French Riveria, and the hillside fires of San Fransisco.
Is a vapor barrier required in exterior applications?

No. AAC construction provides a solid, monolithic wall system with an enclosed, non-connected cellular structure.
Exterior finishes are designed to complement this structure, providing ahealthy balance between moisture resistance
and vapor diffusion. The positive pressure of the air conditioning system pushes water vapor out through the walls,
while preventing moisture penetration from the outside.

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What exterior finishes is suitable for Orilite Blocks?

All kind of paints and putty can be applied on Orilite Blocks. Dimensional accuracy of Orilite Block helps to reduce
thickness of Plaster by 50%. All kind of cladding is possible on Orilite blocks.
 ~~ Orilite
~~~ New Age Building Solutions

What interior finishes is suitable for Orilite Blocks?

an d Inside, Orilite Blocks can be finished with plaster, POP or any other interior finish. They can be easily cut, chased,
sawed and sanded. Hence there are unlimited design possibilities with Orilite Blocks

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What special skills are required for installation of Orilite Blocks?
Regular masons and labour can work on Orilite Blocks with minimal training. Normal masonry practices, which
adheres to 18:1905 (for Brick masonry) and 18:6041 (for Orilite Block masonry), are applied in Orilite Block masonry
work. Care should be taken to ensure savings on mortar and plaster. It is important to use right tools to get maximum
productivity and quality.

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What special tools are required for installation of Orilite Blocks?

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To get maximum benefit and have smart walls, it is important to use the right tools to get maximum productivity and
quality. The bucket notched trowel, cleaning brush, right angled saw guide, chamfering tool, slot scrapper, rubber
mallet, level etc are some ofthe important tools for optimizing productivity.
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Is it possible to cut Orilite Blocks as per requirement?
Yes, Orilite Blocks can be easily worked upon and can be cut to required dimensions with a saw having carbide tips.

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~~~ New Age Building Solutions

Can we do chasing, conduiting, plumbing in Orilite Blocks?

Yes, it is possible. Chasing lines can be done with proper hand or machine tools. People often imagine that wiring
will be a challenge due to the solid structure of Orilite blocks. When they discover how versatile and workable
Orilite really is, they are pleasantly surprised.
There are 3 standard methods for installing wiring in Orilite walls. Many installers use a combination.
Routing: Build the walls first. The electrician draws directly on the block to indicate where the wires will go. The
Orilite installer uses a manual or electric router to cut channels on the inside ofthe walls. After the electrician installs
the wiring, the wall is plastered or sheet rocked. Requires no pre-planning, and changes are easily made.

Behind Sheetrock: If sheetrock is being attached to the Orilite wall with furring strips, then installing the wiring
between the sheetrock and the Orilite is a no-brainer. This method does not require conduit; however, wires and cables
must be protected when crossing the furring.

Inside the Wall: With this method, the majority of the conduit is installed as the wall is built. For example, the
installer may use a course of U-block at the height where the electrical receptacles will be, filling in the cavity with
concrete after the conduit is installed. Wiring may also be run in the vertical cores. Pre-wired conduit is typically used
to reduce the hassle of pulling wires. Wiring is deep in the wall and surrounded by a fire retardant material. Extra
switches and receptacles. can still be added by the routing method.

Can I use wall mounted heavy fittings like WCs, Cabinets, AC's, frames or shelves on Orilite Blocks wall?
Yes, it is possible Orilite Blocks density is lesser than standard concrete and hence fasteners like "spread-fast" anchors
can be driven in with a hammer. Fasteners can be placed anywhere in the wall. These fasteners act as supports for
WCs, Cabinets,AC's, frames or shelves. Bond beams can also be used.

Do I need any special mortar mix and plasters for Orilite Blocks?
Orilite Blocks walls should be constructed with much lesser thickness of mortar. Thin bed mortars such as Orifix
are ideal for this application. Since wall accuracy is far better with Orilite Blocks, plaster thickness also reduces.

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 What thickness of plaster is recommended on Orilite Block wall?
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Oriplast as plaster should be applied in two coats at average thickness of 2 mm. After plaster with Oriplast, a
finish coat should be applied with Orifinish at 0.25 mm thickness should be used.

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I want to add an additional floor on my house which is an old building, can I use these blocks for adding a floor to
my house?
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xtra Orilite Blocks surely helps in reduction of total dead load of structure and is a good choice to construct an additional
floor. It is recommended to consult a structural consultant for load calculations.
I want to add an additional floor on my house which is an old building, can I use these blocks for adding a floor to
my house?

Orilite Blocks surely helps in reduction of total dead load of structure and is a good choice to construct an additional
floor. It is recommended to consult a structural consultant for load calculations.
What is the weight of Orilite Block?

Orilite Block are very light weight for example, 100 X 200 X 600 mm block will have around 7.2 Kgs of weight in
comparison to brick with dimension of75 X 115 X 230 mm which weighs around 3.57 Kgs.

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Do I need to soak Orilite Block in water before use?

Orilite Block need not be wetted before or during the laying of walls. In case the climatic conditions desire so, the top
and the sides of the block may be moistened so as to prevent absorption of water from the mortar and ensure the
development ofthe required bond with the mortar.

Do I need any special storage during rainy season?

In rainy season, blocks should be covered to avoid extra absorption of water.

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 ·~ Orilite
~~B New Age Building Solutions

Do I need any waterproofing for Orilite Block ?

Walls exposed constantly to water require water proofing, else there is no need.

How to do curing of Orilite Block Masonry?

Water absorption coefficient ofOrilite Block is very less, hence it is recommended to cure at the masonry joints only.

What should I do with the blocks that break during the use?
Broken blocks can be easily cut to desired size and if there is rubble, those can be used for filling in sunken areas.
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Does Orilite Blocks have salt leaching properties like in brick?
No! Orilite Block is free from salt leaching properties.

How can I find installers in my area?

ORILITE AAC may be installed by masons, carpenters or specialists. We provide free training for installers using
ORILITE materials at the ORILITE marketing center.

Is ORILITE load-bearing?
ORILITE blocks and panels with a minimum of8" thickness are suitable for load-bearing applications. 6" blocks may
be used for some interior load bearing applications. Load bearing applications require vertical cores reinforced with
rebar and concrete. Code requires cores at corners, doors and windows.
For non-load bearing applications, we supply 4" blocks, 6" blocks.

Can this product be used for basement walls?

Yes. The walls must be designed correctly to account for axial loads when used as a basement retaining wall. Due to the
extreme horizontal pressures exerted by backfilling, thicker walls with additional vertical conrete and rebar
reinforcement should be used, as specified by a qualified structural engineer. All walls below grade should be
waterproofed.

What type of mortar is used with ORILITE?

Thin-bed mortar-Orifix, designed especially to install ORILITE blocks and lintels. It is sold in ready-to-mix powder
form. Thin-Bed Mortar is polymer modified Portland cement specifically designed to bond our blocks for interior and
exterior wall construction. Just 118 inch mortar bed is needed to adhere the products. This extremely thin joint
prevents heat loss and speeds installation. For best results, apply Thin-Bed Mortar with our notched trowel. Choose a
trowel the same width as the block. The exception is the first course of walling. Conventional Type N mortar must be
used to install the first course on the footer or slab. This is because concrete footings and slabs are never completely
level, and this one thick mortar joint is used to ensure that the first course will be extern ely accurate.
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What type·of finishes are available for Orilite walls?

ORILITE can be finished with stucco, acrylic finishes, brick, stone, siding, or approved paints. On the inside of the
building, Orilite may be finished with plaster, stucco, wood panel or tile.

Can gypsum board or sheetrock be used on ORILITE walls?

Absolutely. Gypsum board or sheetrock may be attached directly to Orilite walls with construction adhesive and
screws, or it can be attached to furring strips.

What type of roofing material can be used over ORILITE roof panels?
Any commercially-available roofing system may be used.
What type of surface treatment is required for ORILITE floor panels?
Common commercially-available products such as carpet and pad, marble, ceramic tile, wood flooring, and
industrial surface treatment may be used.
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What are the guidelines for AAC installation in severe heat or cold?
The following chart addresses temperature guidlines. Please note that these limitations are related to the thin bed
mortar, not Orilite Blocks/panels itself. Thus the requirements are not applicable when installing Orilite panels
without mortared joints.
Provisions for work in progress
Condition Requirement
Ambient temperature Normal construction practice.
above 40° F (4.5° C) Cover stored materials.
Ambient temperature Heat mortar materials to produce "''~~
below 40° F (4.5° C) or mortar temperatures between 40°F
temperature of units below (4.5° C) and 105° F (40° C) at time of
40° F (4.5° C). mixing. Maintain mortar above
freezing until used in masonry.
 ~~ Orilite
~~Bi New Age Building Solutions

Is fly ash used in ORILITE production?

Sometimes. The primary ingredient in the chemical reaction needed for autoclaved aerated concrete production is
silica. The silica and other raw materials combine to form Tobermorite, a manmade version of a naturally occurring
mineral. This gives Orilite its unique strength-producing crystalline structure. Silica is found in many sources, such as
sand, copper mine tailings, volcanic ash, and fly ash. ORILITE products are made with locally sourced materials and
may contain sand, fly ash some combination.
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Fly Ash Safety

The noncombusttble re!;ldue from the
burnln1 of pulverized coal. Fly ash Is
pouolantc and Is frequently used to
replace a portion of the cement and reduce
Its density.

W hat tools and accessories are needed with O rilite p roducts?

Accessories:
Thin bed mortar-Orifix
Plaster-Oriplast
Finish Coat-Orifinish
Tools:
Saw with wide teeth
Notched trowel same width as Orilite blocks
Rasp
Bucket for mortar
Paddle mixer extension
3" or 4" drill bit with extension or core drill
Other Equipments Required:
A forklift to unload the material. Capacity should be at least 1.5 tons.
If you are installing jumbo blocks, you will need a mini-crane.Ifyou are installing panels, you will need to rent a crane
and also lifting equipment.

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What is the lead-time for my ORILITE order?
The lead time for standard products is typically one week. We will be pleased to assist you with estimating, choosing
appropriate products, and locating other resources for your project.
Are vertical cores required?
Yes, vertical cores are an integral part ofthe Orilite block system and are required. Cored blocks may be used for this
purpose, or installers may core standard blocks using a 3" or 4" drill bit kit or core drill. Rebar is inserted into these
cores and is tied to both the foundation and the rebar in the bond beam. Cores are then filled with conventional
concrete grout. Vertical reinforcement cores lend additional strength to the Orilite structure, and are required in all
regions. Minimum code requirement is one reinforcement core on either side of each opening, in each corner, and wall
intersections.
 What is the ORILITE return policy?
Damaged: ORILITE will replace or refund materials that arrive at the jobsite defective or damaged on our trucks.
Photograph the material (preferably while it is still on the truck) to document the damage. All damage claims must be
made to ORILITE within three working days of receiving the material. Later damage claims will not be honored.
Orilite is a soft material, and it is normal for blocks to have chipped corners. Lintels and panels tend to get skinned or
dented during transport and handling. This is not considered refundable damage unless the materials are unusable.
Because Orilite is such a workable material, most pieces can be used even with minor damage. Damaged ends can be
trimmed.
Extra Material: Approximately 5% extra material should be figured in your estimate to cover jobsite waste and
incidental transit and handling damage. In the case of unused material, ORILITE accepts returns of full, unopened
pallets ofAAC blocks that are returned to the company warehouse at customer expense. Returns are subject to a 20%
restocking fee.
Where can I know how to use Orilite Block ?
For information, contact our marketing team.

What is the delivery lead-times for Orilite Blocks?

Orilite Block is dispatched within 7 working days time after confirmation of order and there is no seasonal variation in
supplies.
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I find it difficult to get clay bricks during rainy season, will I also face same difficulty with your blocks?
No, there is no seasonal impact on the manufacturing process throughout the year.

Where can I place order for Orilite Blocks ?

You can contact our marketing department at Oriental Power Cable Limited (OPCL) marketing team.

What technical support does your company provide ?

Oriental Power Cable Limited (OPCL) has its own technical team, which provide technical support at site and
demonstrate best practices for Orilite Block/panel masonry work. We also provide specialty tools for application of
Orilite Blocks.
Does ORILITE construction qualify for LEED/GRIHA certification?
ORILITE materials are environmentally-friendly in a number of ways and GRIHA does recognize this. Please note
however, thatLEED/GRIHAcertification is based on the construction project, not a single material.
LEED/GRIHA recognizes aerated concrete products in the following manner:
ORILITE materials are environmentally-friendly in a number of ways and GRIHA does recognize this. Please note
however, that LEED/GRIHA certification is based on the construction project, not a single material.
LEED/GRIHA recognizes aerated concrete products in the following manner:
Raw Materials consist ofRecycled Post-Industrial Waste
Up to 70% of the raw materials in ORILITE is recycled content. Reclaimed fly ash is a main ingredient in some
regions.
 d~ orilite
~~B New Age Building Solutions

Non-pollutin2 Manufacture
Orilite manufacturing ise a closed-loop manufacturing process, so that nothing is ever released other than clean steam.
Product trimmings, slurry and water are reprocessed, and steam is reused whenever possible.
Resource Efficiency
The end product is approximately 80% entrained air and 20% mass. Thus 5 parts Orilite are produced from just 1
part raw materials.
Low Ener2y Consumption throu2hout Life cycle
The total energy consumption to produce AAC is 113 to 112 that of comparable building materials. When installed,
AAC results in tremendous energy savings for heating and cooling the building.
Healthier I~ door A~r Quality
ORILITE products are an excellent choice for the chemically sensitive because these products do not emit gas. Oriltie
products do not promote the growth of mildew and mold, and cannot be infested by termites. Rats and other pests find
no home, since there is no cavity in an Orilite wall.

Is Orilite Block an environment friendly and certified green product?

• Yes. Orilite Block is an environmental friendly construction material.
• Orilite products conserve and protect earth's precious natural resources unlike bricks which cons.ume the top soil.
• Orilite Block is manufactured from fly ash, an industrial waste from thermal power plant. During manufacturing,
the energy consumed in the production process is only a fraction compared to the production of other materials.
• The manufacturing process emits no pollutants and creates no by-products or toxic waste products.
• During the installation of wall, there is virtually no waste generated and this product consumes very less amount of
water.
• During disposal, Orilite being a non-toxic product does not pollute the air, land or water. Due to its resource
efficiency and material envelope, one can earn good number of credits in green certification process such as LEED,
GRIHAetc.

What is thermal insulation of Orilite Blocks?

K value for Orilite Blocks is around 0.16W/Mk and this results in strong thermal insulation of walls with energy saving
upto20%.

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Oriental Power Cables Ltd.

Manufacturers of Precast Building Solutions
Corporate Office :- 6-7, Heavy Industrial Area, Multimetals Compound, Kota - 324003, Rajasthan, India.
Ph. No. 0744-3008508 Mob. +91-766-543-6691
Works:- P.O. Cable Nagar, NH-12, Kota-325003, Rajasthan, India
Email: info@opcl.in Website:- www.opcl.in